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Boeing and NRG Energy’s Solar Project Takes Off

A new solar project is about to take off in Guam, an organized, unincorporated territory of the United States in the western Pacific Ocean. The partnership between Boeing and NRG Energy will generate 25 megawatts of clean energy that is enough to power 10,000 homes and offset the equivalent of two million barrels of fuel oil and diesel. NRG will chip with its experience and technical savvy in solar technology while Boeing will provide its engineering, procurement and construction expertise to the project.

Energy generated by Guam’s first solar project will be sold to the Guam Power Authority, the island’s sole electric utility, under two 25-year power purchase agreements that will help Guam achieve its renewable energy goals by 2015.

“Guam is taking a strong step forward in realizing its sustainability goals, both from an environmental and economic point of view,” said Joaquin C. Flores, general manager at the Guam Power Authority. “We look forward to seeing the facility completed and observing how it will serve as a catalyst for more interest in renewable energy on the island.”

During the power purchase agreement period, Guam will save more than $300 million in fuel cost savings. Solar will help Guam clean up its act, too. Due to its isolated location in the South Pacific, it relies on imported oil and diesel to generate all of its energy. The clean energy generated will cut annual carbon dioxide emissions by more than 40,000 metric tons, the equivalent of taking nearly 7,300 cars off the road.​

“Clean, affordable, and secure power is a big need for Guam and throughout the world,” said Tim Noonan, vice president of Ventures, part of Boeing’s Defense, Space and Security division. “Our engineering, procurement and program management expertise coupled with NRG’s approach to providing leading edge energy solutions creates a powerful and capable team. It’s a great global market for Boeing outside of our core business.”

Corporate Social Responsibility writer for Justmeans, Antonio Pasolini is a journalist based in Brazil who writes about alternative energy, green living and sustainability. He edits Energyrefuge.com, a top web destination for news and comment on renewable energy, and contributes articles on emerging technology to Gizmag. He is also a happy herbivore.